Manual material handling risk assessment in furniture industry: REBA method

Abstract

The Turkish furniture industry is a significant player in the global market and ranks eleventh in the worldwide in terms of exports. Despite its positive economic impact, the industry faces challenges such as a high number of occupational injuries and illnesses, especially musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The objective of this study is to conduct an ergonomic risk assessment using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method in a furniture Turkish manufacturing facility. A total of twenty-four tasks were assessed using the REBA method, revealing that 41.7% of the tasks were found to pose either a high or very high ergonomic risk. Tasks such as carrying sofa frames and cutting fabrics were found to be particularly risky due to prolonged and strenuous postures involved. Engineering and managerial control measures were recommended to mitigate these risks, including automation, workstation redesign, and employee training. While the REBA method provided valuable insights, its subjective nature highlights the need for more objective assessment methods, such as electromyography (EMG). Future research should investigate these alternative methods to improve the reliability of ergonomic assessments. In conclusion, this study highlights the significant ergonomic risks in the Turkish furniture industry and emphasizes the importance of implementing targeted interventions to safeguard employee health and improve overall productivity. By addressing these risks, companies can create safer working environments and enhance their competitiveness in the global market.